Three Surprisingly Dog Friendly Activities in Austin

Dogs and Austinites go hand in paw. We love our four-legged friends so much that we take them everywhere we can. Though we’re used to taking our dogs jogging, swimming, hiking, and even to work sometimes, you may not know some of the more unusual dog friendly activities in Austin that you can enjoy with your furry friend.

Shopping at The Domain

Photo credit: Market Cred

To many Austinites, The Domain seems like a little slice of Dallas that has been planted in the Capitol City. The place has a lot of glitz and glam. With all of the high-end retail stores and restaurants at The Domain, you might expect to find very strict no-dogs-allowed policies here.

The Domain in Austin (Photo credit: Joe Diev)

Yet, surprisingly, The Domain is one of the most dog friendly parts of Austin.

Every store in the shopping area allows dogs inside. You will find waters bowls in front of H&M and Luis Vuitton. Though state law prevents dogs from going inside the restaurants, your dogs are still welcome on many of the outdoor patios.

Drinking Downtown

Bar dog (Photo credit: Will Murphy)

There is no reason to leave your dog inside when you head out on a Friday evening. First off, though, make sure that your dog is old enough to handle the excitement. Also, don’t forget the shots. Dogs need their shots. There are more than a few dog-friendly bars in Austin, so you have a bit of a choice.

Locals love The Liberty on East Sixth because the lot of ‘em are dog lovers. Same goes for the Flying Saucer in the Triangle and Snack Bar (closed) on South Congress.

Lustre Pearl (Photo credit: Cheri Lucas)

Specifically, though, Lustre Pearl on Rainey Street gets my vote as the most dog friendly bar in Austin. Dogs are more than welcome here – they are encouraged to show up.

Since Lustre Pearl has a sprawling backyard with a high fence, your dog can wander from person to person and truly be a part of the party.

Paddle Board Lady Bird Lake

Photo credit: Mike Baird

Everybody knows that going to the lake with your dog is a great way to spend a hot summer afternoon. But how about going on the lake instead? If you’ve never been stand up paddle boarding, this is a great time of year to get started.

Photo credit: Nomadic Pursuits Photography

Simply rent a board, paddle, and life jackets for you and your pup. Once you’re suited up, it’s time to spend a few hours exploring the calm waters of Lady Bird Lake. Start by visiting one of the kayak shops along the river. They teach you the basics of stand up paddle boarding, so you and your favorite canine can hit the water right away.

Be sure to keep an eye on your dog whenever you go out. Be aware of its mood, health and safety at all times. The Austinot supports safe pet ownership!

Those are my three somewhat unusual dog-friendly activities in Austin. What do you like to do with your dog on a lazy weekend? Comment below and let me know!

Photos via Flickr CC, property of their respective owners.

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